Description
This One Pot Kielbasa Mac And Cheese is a deliciously creamy and comforting meal that comes together in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines savory beef kielbasa with rich cheese sauce for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package beef kielbasa, sliced into coin-sized pieces
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Slice your beef kielbasa into coin-sized pieces, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Dice your onion, and mince your garlic. Shred your cheese if using block cheese.
- Brown the Kielbasa: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the sliced beef kielbasa and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Transfer the kielbasa to a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Sauté the Aromatics: If needed, add a small pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil to the pot. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it's fully submerged.
- Cook the Pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes. Cook until al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Cheese Time!: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the butter and Dijon mustard until melted. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and incorporated.
- Combine and Season: Return the cooked kielbasa to the pot and stir to combine. Taste and season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to your liking.
- Serve Immediately: Ladle portions into bowls and enjoy your comforting meal!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: For the creamiest sauce, always shred your own cheese from a block. Stir frequently while cooking to prevent sticking, and adjust seasonings to your taste before serving.